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Sport
Shayne Hope

Demons happy to enter Lions' new AFLW den

Mick Stinear says Melbourne will embrace the challenge of playing the AFLW decider in Brisbane. (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

Its selection as AFLW grand final host was contentious but Brisbane's new venue holds no fears for Melbourne as they prepare to head north.

The 10,000-capacity Brighton Homes Arena - part of the Lions' state-of-the-art Springfield headquarters - will have its first competitive fixture with next Sunday's season decider.

Demons coach Mick Stinear brushed off concerns over the freshly laid playing surface, which was only ticked off by league officials on Friday.

"They earned the right to get a home final and if that facility is ready and available - and it looks like it is - we're keen to go," Stinear said after his side advanced with a 17-point win over North Melbourne on Saturday.

"We're just grateful to be in a grand final and pleased our group earned that opportunity.

"Brisbane deserved that (home ground advantage) by being minor premiers."

The Lions have been training on a nearby oval and expect to have their first run on the new arena in the days leading up to the grand final.

They won't have to travel, having finished above Melbourne on top of the ladder by the barest of margins.

"They'll get the benefit of the crowd and it's a great occasion for them to unveil the new facility," Stinear said.

"It looks fantastic and it's a good opportunity for women's footy in Queensland.

"It might be neutral in terms of no one's played a match there but I don't think the players will be too fussed once that ball goes up."

Brisbane are 1-2 in grand finals, having hoisted the premiership cup in 2021, while Melbourne lost to Adelaide last season in their only previous appearance on the biggest stage.

"A lot of hard work goes into getting into a grand final and you've got to make sure you make the most of your opportunities," Stinear said.

"I'm rapt with our group for enduring all that hard work to get there again and we just want to bring the best version of ourselves."

Melbourne will monitor Tayla Harris' shoulder injury in coming days but are confident the star forward will be fit for the grand final.

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